CSK Break Losing Streak with Thrilling 5-Wicket Win Over LSG in IPL 2025
NEW DELHI: In a match that reignited hope for their beleaguered fans, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) finally broke their five-match losing streak in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 with a hard-fought five-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Monday. Despite the much-needed win, CSK remain anchored at the bottom of the points table with just 4 points from 7 matches, while LSG hold onto fourth place with 8 points.
Opting to bowl first after winning the toss, CSK showcased a disciplined bowling performance to restrict LSG to a modest 166 for 7 in their 20 overs. LSG’s innings was anchored by a gritty 63 off 49 balls from Quinton de Kock, who struck four boundaries and four towering sixes. Support came from Kyle Mayers, who chipped in with a steady 30 off 25 balls at the top of the order, but the middle overs saw LSG lose momentum due to tight bowling from the CSK attack.
Ravindra Jadeja was the pick of the bowlers for CSK, delivering a masterclass with figures of 2 for 24 in 3 overs. His ability to stifle the LSG batters in the middle overs proved crucial. Seamers Deepak Chahar and Tushar Deshpande provided early breakthroughs, while young pacer Matheesha Pathirana impressed with his death-over accuracy, ensuring LSG couldn’t post a daunting total.
In reply, CSK’s chase got off to a promising start with opener Rachin Ravindra blazing his way to 37 off 22 balls, setting a solid foundation. However, a mini-collapse left CSK reeling at 111 for 5, with LSG spinners Ravi Bishnoi (2/18) and Krunal Pandya turning the screws. Just when it seemed like another defeat was on the cards, Shivam Dube stepped up with a composed 43 not out off 37 balls, anchoring the innings with maturity beyond his years.
The real magic, however, came from the evergreen MS Dhoni, who rolled back the years with a breathtaking 26 not out off just 11 balls. His cameo, studded with two monstrous sixes, electrified the crowd and turned the game in CSK’s favor. Dhoni and Dube stitched together an unbeaten 57-run partnership in just 4.3 overs, guiding CSK to victory with three balls to spare. Debutant Shaik Rasheed also caught the eye with a confident 27 off 19 balls, providing much-needed stability in the middle order.
While this victory offers a glimmer of hope and a significant morale boost for CSK, their position at the bottom of the table remains a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. With tough fixtures looming, head coach Stephen Fleming will hope this win sparks a turnaround for the five-time champions. For LSG, the loss is a setback, but their playoff hopes remain alive as they look to bounce back in their next encounter.
Brief Scores:
Lucknow Super Giants: 166/7 in 20 overs (Quinton de Kock 63, Kyle Mayers 30; Ravindra Jadeja 2/24).
Chennai Super Kings: 168/5 in 19.3 overs (Shivam Dube 43*, Rachin Ravindra 37, MS Dhoni 26*; Ravi Bishnoi 2/18).